News

PITTSBURGH, PA - College is a real and achievable pathway for many students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, yet families are often unaware of the opportunities available. To help students and families explore those options, Achieva will host its first annual Virtual College Fair: Pennsylvania College Opportunities for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities on April 15, 2026.

The free online event will connect students, families, educators, and transition professionals with colleges, universities, and statewide resources that support inclusive post-secondary education. Attendees will learn about programs that offer academic learning, career preparation, campus life experiences, and increased independence after high school.

Sessions will address key questions families frequently face, including how to pay for post-secondary programs, how to plan for college with an IEP team, what services and supports are available, and how college differs from K–12 inclusion. Participants will also hear directly from current students and alumni about their college experiences.

Presenters include Achieva and its affiliate organization The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh, PaTTAN - PA Training and Technical Assistance Network, and representatives from colleges and universities across the state, including Temple University, Villanova University, Lehigh Carbon Community College, Slippery Rock University, Saint Vincent College, Mercyhurst University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Duquesne University, Misericordia University, and Westmoreland County Community College.

Many students face challenges as they approach or plan for post high school graduation. Matthew Mitchell shared that college was rarely discussed as an option. With advocacy support from Achieva, Matthew and his mother explored post-secondary programs, toured campuses, and considered what independence with support could look like. Matthew ultimately enrolled in the Bearcat B.E.S.T. Program at Saint Vincent College. 

Today, after completing his first year, Matthew is thriving. He manages his schedule, advocates for himself, and participates in campus life — milestones his family once worried might not be possible.

Stories like Matthew’s illustrate why access to information matters.

“A big part of transition is starting early and planning for your future." said Mary Hartley, President of The Arc of Greater Pittsburgh. “College isn’t the right path for everyone, but families deserve to know about different options.”

Achieva’s virtual College Fair aims to ensure that students with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Pennsylvania can envision - and plan for - a future that includes higher education when it aligns with their goals.

For registration information and event details, visit Achieva’s website at https://www.achieva.info/events/college-fair. 

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About Achieva
Achieva supports more than 10,000 Pennsylvanians with disabilities annually through housing, caregiving, employment, and advocacy programs. The organization is dedicated to supporting people with disabilities to lead lives of personal significance in their communities.